A Middle-Range Theory for Nurses to Diagnose Ineffective Infant Feeding Patterns

Purpose: To construct a middle-range theory, based on the Roy adaptation model, for nurses can diagnose an ineffective infant feeding pattern.

Data source: Scientific findings were used through a literature review and the concepts of the Roy model.

Data synthesis: The theory indicated new elements for the diagnosis: 12 etiological factors and 13 clinical indicators. Most of those are not contained in the NANDA taxonomy.

Conclusion: The middle-range theory for these diagnoses highlights the need for a review of the components present in the taxonomy.

Implications for nursing practice: This approach guides research on nursing diagnoses to revise the content of the theory and to expand its concepts and elements for the diagnosis of an ineffective infant feeding pattern.